Tobago has recorded its third covid19 death – the first in eight months.
The THA Division of Health, Wellness and Family Development on Monday said the patient, a 62-year-old woman with co-morbidities, died on Sunday. No other information was provided on the deceased.
Newsday was told that the patient is 62-year-old Althea Nelson of Bon Accord. An immediate family member, who declined to be named, confirmed Nelson’s death. Nelson, the relative said, had a pre-existing medical condition and had been ailing for some time. She was also restricted to her home.
Newsday understands Nelson was admitted to Scarborough General Hospital at the end of April, after complaining of feeling unwell, and was being treated at the Intensive Care Unit.
The relative said she was swabbed late last week and diagnosed with the virus mere hours before her death. All other household family members were swabbed on Monday.
Health Secretary Tracy Davidson-Celestine on Monday said she was saddened by the loss.
“No one should have to die due to this virus," she said.
"The staff did all they could, and our hearts go out to the family and loved ones. We will do our best to offer further emotional support at this time.”
Davidson-Celestine called on Tobagonians to be vigilant.
“This should be a wake-up call for Tobagonians. We need to be vigilant and look out for everyone. This is not a joke – every life we lose is precious. The vaccine and proper mask-wearing are our main lines of defence. Sanitising and keeping six feet away are critical. We need people to get vaccinated and stay home, what we don’t need are more people to die.”
Progressive Democratic Patriots deputy leader and Parlatuvier/ L’Anse Fourmi/ Speyside representative Farley Augustine also described the death as a wake-up call.
“This should be a strong reminder that covid19 remains a serious virus," Augustine said.
"In the absence of herd immunity, which will only come when sufficient residents are able to get vaccinated, locking down and locking away from people is our best bet."
He called on citizens to practise health protocols and do their part.
“I want to remind people that the lockdown is not an opportunity to go visit family and lime. It is not an opportunity to spend the weekend out – that is dangerous. Stick to your own household, it is a virus; viruses spread, that is what they do – be more vigilant.”
Insp Piggott: People still liming
However, Tobago police media ambassador acting Insp Alicia Piggott said Tobagonians are still not adhering to the public health regulations.
She said on Monday, “Just today the police had to go to the Bacolet cemetery where in excess of 100 persons attending funeral.”
Piggott said police issue in excess of 40 face mask tickets daily, while also making mention of illegal gatherings in Whim.
“Residents of Whim insist on gathering on Sunday night, the day harvest is usually celebrated. Persons still in
